A 360-degree viewing platform, with panoramic coastal views, will form part of a planned €100 million wind farm.
But construction of the wind farm in west Clare will result in population decline, a depreciation of property values and a net reduction in employment and a drop in tourism revenue, an opposition group has claimed.
Clare Coastal Wind Power Ltd has lodged a planning application directly to An Bord Pleanála to develop a 45-turbine wind farm spanning the three parishes of Doonbeg, Kilrush and Cooraclare.
The plans include the construction of a visitor viewing platform at the northern most turbine as part of the development which would be the first of its kind in Ireland and one of only six worldwide.
It would allow people to take in an extensive view of the Atlantic Ocean to the north and views of the wind farm to the south.
Project promoters believe it would become a major tourist attraction.
The developers also have plans to develop an interpretative centre in Doonbeg on the generation of different forms of energy.
If planning permission and grid connection is secured, it is estimated the project would result in about 250 construction jobs over a two-year period, at least 10 permanent jobs and another four to six jobs associated with the proposed viewing platform and interpretative centre.
The company has finalised rental agreements with 80 land owners. Earlier this year, the company stated 70 local landowners at that stage would be paid €15m in total over a 25-year period.
However, the newly-formed Rural Protection Group, has claimed there is no evidence that people view wind turbines as a tourist attraction. They stated that the majority of independent evidence indicated that areas with large scale wind turbine developments suffer a sharp and permanent drop in tourism and plummeting property values.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Showing posts with label clare planning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label clare planning. Show all posts
Tuesday, 1 November 2011
Wednesday, 31 March 2010
Snail protection plan off to a tee at Doonbeg Golf Club
THE POPULATION of a protected snail, the Vertigo angustior, at the Greg Norman-designed Doonbeg golf course has increased six-fold to 60 million. With more of the snail living there than almost anywhere else, the conservation project can now be regarded as a model of its kind.
That is according to an expert in the subject, Dr Evelyn Moorkens, who has monitored the management by Doonbeg Golf Club of the 1.8mm snail at the west Co Clare links over the past 10 years.
She said yesterday: “The snail is thriving at the course, and what has occurred at Doonbeg is a model in terms of sustainable development, and I can’t think of another instance where the notion of sustainable development as understood in the EU habitats directive has been embraced so much.”
The presence of the snail at the course held up its construction in 2000 after Tony Lowes of the Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE) took a High Court action seeking to ensure the conservation of the snail.
The protection of the animal was the subject of a High Court settlement with Mr Lowes, and also part of the planning conditions granted by An Bord Pleanála.
According to Dr Moorkens, the estimated snail population at the course has grown from 10 million in 2000 to 60 million last year.
“Last year was a phenomenal year for the snail at the course. The damp conditions, along with the management regime in place, were perfect for the snail. There are now more snails at the course than are present in most countries.”
Dr Moorkens, an independent ecological consultant, was commenting yesterday arising from a report on the snail just lodged by her at Clare County Council concerning a plan by Doonbeg Golf Club for the retention of a contentious wall.
She lodges annual reports with the Department of the Environment on the conservation status of the snail.
Dr Moorkens said: “The management by the golf club of the snail has been superb. You can’t fault them. It is nature as it should be.”
One of the conservation measures carried out by the golf club is “hiring” cattle to graze in a special area of conservation (SAC) during certain periods of the year, to ensure that the dunes do not become overgrown.
Dr Moorkens said: “You have to hand it to them. They are up for the challenge, and that is what people want to see.”
The general manager of Doonbeg Golf Club, Joe Russell, said: “I think wherever golf is played Doonbeg will always be identified with our snail, Vertigo angustior. Happily, since the golf club was established, the snail has thrived.”
Mr Lowes said: “Doonbeg Golf Club and the Parks and Wildlife Service both deserve great credit, but it’s worth remembering that this level of conservation was only achieved by a long struggle through An Bord Pleanála and the Irish courts.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
That is according to an expert in the subject, Dr Evelyn Moorkens, who has monitored the management by Doonbeg Golf Club of the 1.8mm snail at the west Co Clare links over the past 10 years.
She said yesterday: “The snail is thriving at the course, and what has occurred at Doonbeg is a model in terms of sustainable development, and I can’t think of another instance where the notion of sustainable development as understood in the EU habitats directive has been embraced so much.”
The presence of the snail at the course held up its construction in 2000 after Tony Lowes of the Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE) took a High Court action seeking to ensure the conservation of the snail.
The protection of the animal was the subject of a High Court settlement with Mr Lowes, and also part of the planning conditions granted by An Bord Pleanála.
According to Dr Moorkens, the estimated snail population at the course has grown from 10 million in 2000 to 60 million last year.
“Last year was a phenomenal year for the snail at the course. The damp conditions, along with the management regime in place, were perfect for the snail. There are now more snails at the course than are present in most countries.”
Dr Moorkens, an independent ecological consultant, was commenting yesterday arising from a report on the snail just lodged by her at Clare County Council concerning a plan by Doonbeg Golf Club for the retention of a contentious wall.
She lodges annual reports with the Department of the Environment on the conservation status of the snail.
Dr Moorkens said: “The management by the golf club of the snail has been superb. You can’t fault them. It is nature as it should be.”
One of the conservation measures carried out by the golf club is “hiring” cattle to graze in a special area of conservation (SAC) during certain periods of the year, to ensure that the dunes do not become overgrown.
Dr Moorkens said: “You have to hand it to them. They are up for the challenge, and that is what people want to see.”
The general manager of Doonbeg Golf Club, Joe Russell, said: “I think wherever golf is played Doonbeg will always be identified with our snail, Vertigo angustior. Happily, since the golf club was established, the snail has thrived.”
Mr Lowes said: “Doonbeg Golf Club and the Parks and Wildlife Service both deserve great credit, but it’s worth remembering that this level of conservation was only achieved by a long struggle through An Bord Pleanála and the Irish courts.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 10 January 2010
Planning For A Brighter Future In County Clare
An action aimed at harnessing the industrial and tourism potential of the
Shannon Estuary is among a series of measures outlined in the Draft Clare
County Development Plan 2011-2017.
The strategy has been unanimously approved by members of Clare County
Council following a year-long review process. It will be placed on public
display in two weeks before going through a 10-week public consultation
period.
Once approved, the Plan will pave the way for the zoning over 700 Hectares
of land for 'Marine Related Industry' at locations along the Shannon
Estuary, the provision of Electric Vehicle charge points throughout the
County, the implementation of a County's first Wind Energy Strategy, the
development of an inventory of community, social and cultural facilities
throughout Clare, and a requirement for all new buildings and houses to have
a low level access shower and toilet on the ground floor to ensure access
for all.
The Draft Clare County Development Plan 2011-2017 sets out an overall
strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the
functional area of Clare County Council. When adopted the six year blueprint
will replace the existing County Development Plan 2005 and it will be the
sixth such Plan since 1964.
Mayor of Clare Councillor Tony Mulcahy welcomed the unanimous adoption of
the Draft Plan. He noted: "The primary goal of this Plan is to position
County Clare as a driver for local and regional growth through harnessing
the potential of its unique location, quality of life, natural resources and
other competitive advantages. Ultimately, the Plan seeks to make County
Clare a better place to live in, work and visit."
Commenting on the proposed zoning of large tracts of land along the Shannon
Estuary, County Manager Tom Coughlan stated: "The Estuary because of its
deep water, shelter and other natural advantages is a significant potential
asset for the county and for the first time the Draft Development Plan
introduces a chapter aimed at developing the Estuary for various economic
and recreational uses. In addition to this, the Draft Plan introduces new
proactive policies in relation to economic development and enterprise in the
county including in rural areas."
He continued: "The Draft Plan has a strong emphasis on renewable energy
production, storage and distribution and for the first time contains a
separate Wind Energy Strategy for County Clare aimed at further tapping into
the potential of the significant wind resources of the county subject to the
normal environmental safeguards. The Draft Plan includes also for the first
time a chapter dealing specifically with Rural Development and Natural
Resources."
The Draft Plan also includes
- A proposal that all new buildings and houses would be required to
have a low level access shower and toilet. This measure aimed at ensuring
the lifetime adaptability of homes in particular would be in excess of the
minimum requirements of the current building regulations and will prevent
the need for expensive retrofitting in many cases
- A separate volume a Record of Protected Structures for the county
and includes a photograph and description of over 500 buildings and
structures already protected and a further 200 that are proposed for
protection
- An innovative and forward thinking proposal that in future certain
developments will be required to provide facilities to allow for charging of
electric cars and vehicles
- A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment carried out in light of new
Guidelines issues to Planning Authorities on Flood Risk Management.
The Draft Clare County Development Plan 2011-2017 will be available in
public offices, libraries and on the internet at www.clarecoco.ie in late
January 2010. Public exhibitions and various stakeholder meetings will also
be held around the County and written submissions will be invited. At the
end of the public consultation period, the Manager's Report on any issues
arising will be prepared and submitted to Members in June 2010.
www.buckplanning.ie
Shannon Estuary is among a series of measures outlined in the Draft Clare
County Development Plan 2011-2017.
The strategy has been unanimously approved by members of Clare County
Council following a year-long review process. It will be placed on public
display in two weeks before going through a 10-week public consultation
period.
Once approved, the Plan will pave the way for the zoning over 700 Hectares
of land for 'Marine Related Industry' at locations along the Shannon
Estuary, the provision of Electric Vehicle charge points throughout the
County, the implementation of a County's first Wind Energy Strategy, the
development of an inventory of community, social and cultural facilities
throughout Clare, and a requirement for all new buildings and houses to have
a low level access shower and toilet on the ground floor to ensure access
for all.
The Draft Clare County Development Plan 2011-2017 sets out an overall
strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the
functional area of Clare County Council. When adopted the six year blueprint
will replace the existing County Development Plan 2005 and it will be the
sixth such Plan since 1964.
Mayor of Clare Councillor Tony Mulcahy welcomed the unanimous adoption of
the Draft Plan. He noted: "The primary goal of this Plan is to position
County Clare as a driver for local and regional growth through harnessing
the potential of its unique location, quality of life, natural resources and
other competitive advantages. Ultimately, the Plan seeks to make County
Clare a better place to live in, work and visit."
Commenting on the proposed zoning of large tracts of land along the Shannon
Estuary, County Manager Tom Coughlan stated: "The Estuary because of its
deep water, shelter and other natural advantages is a significant potential
asset for the county and for the first time the Draft Development Plan
introduces a chapter aimed at developing the Estuary for various economic
and recreational uses. In addition to this, the Draft Plan introduces new
proactive policies in relation to economic development and enterprise in the
county including in rural areas."
He continued: "The Draft Plan has a strong emphasis on renewable energy
production, storage and distribution and for the first time contains a
separate Wind Energy Strategy for County Clare aimed at further tapping into
the potential of the significant wind resources of the county subject to the
normal environmental safeguards. The Draft Plan includes also for the first
time a chapter dealing specifically with Rural Development and Natural
Resources."
The Draft Plan also includes
- A proposal that all new buildings and houses would be required to
have a low level access shower and toilet. This measure aimed at ensuring
the lifetime adaptability of homes in particular would be in excess of the
minimum requirements of the current building regulations and will prevent
the need for expensive retrofitting in many cases
- A separate volume a Record of Protected Structures for the county
and includes a photograph and description of over 500 buildings and
structures already protected and a further 200 that are proposed for
protection
- An innovative and forward thinking proposal that in future certain
developments will be required to provide facilities to allow for charging of
electric cars and vehicles
- A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment carried out in light of new
Guidelines issues to Planning Authorities on Flood Risk Management.
The Draft Clare County Development Plan 2011-2017 will be available in
public offices, libraries and on the internet at www.clarecoco.ie in late
January 2010. Public exhibitions and various stakeholder meetings will also
be held around the County and written submissions will be invited. At the
end of the public consultation period, the Manager's Report on any issues
arising will be prepared and submitted to Members in June 2010.
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 17 December 2009
Brother opposes planning for sister to live next to him
A WEST Clare man is opposing plans by his sister to secure planning permission for a new home adjacent to his own house.
The opposition by Cyril Donnellan to plans by Bernadette Donnellan to construct a new home at Ballycurraun, Knock, Kilrush is at the centre of a family dispute where the site is owned by a brother of the two, Joseph Donnellan.
Last month, Clare County Council granted planning permission to Ms Donnellan, a mother of four, currently living in Dublin in spite of her brother Cyril lodging an objection against the proposal.
Now, Cyril Donnellan has appealed the council’s decision to An Bord Pleanála along with a separate appeal being lodged by other local residents, Sean Downes and Jennifer Bostock.
The application states that Bernadette was born in Clare, but now lives in Dublin and says that she “wishes to return home to build a house on family farm and live next to relatives”.The application states that Ms Donnellan is a retired cleaner and currently rents her accommodation from Dublin City Council.
In his objection, Cyril Donnellan said: “I wish to advise the council that there is no reality in this application as presented by my sister, Bernadette Donnellan as I know she has no intention whatsoever of building or occupying the home.”
However, when contacted yesterday, Joe Donnellan confirmed that he has contracts signed for the sale of the site to his sister.
Mr Donnellan said there has been a family dispute. He said: “My only interest is selling the site.”
In his objection, Cyril Donnellan said: “I have lived at Ballycurraun for 25 years with my wife and family. We moved here from an urban area for privacy, peace and quietness. We have two bedrooms and one living room window facing the direction of the proposed dwelling. If a dwelling is erected nine metres from our home, we will have to keep our curtains closed forever more.”
When contacted, Cyril Donnellan declined to comment.
The council’s planner’s report states there is no requirement that a local rural person must occupy the dwelling. The planner states: “The only requirement is the house is occupied as a permanent dwelling.”
A decision is due on the appeal in March next year.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The opposition by Cyril Donnellan to plans by Bernadette Donnellan to construct a new home at Ballycurraun, Knock, Kilrush is at the centre of a family dispute where the site is owned by a brother of the two, Joseph Donnellan.
Last month, Clare County Council granted planning permission to Ms Donnellan, a mother of four, currently living in Dublin in spite of her brother Cyril lodging an objection against the proposal.
Now, Cyril Donnellan has appealed the council’s decision to An Bord Pleanála along with a separate appeal being lodged by other local residents, Sean Downes and Jennifer Bostock.
The application states that Bernadette was born in Clare, but now lives in Dublin and says that she “wishes to return home to build a house on family farm and live next to relatives”.The application states that Ms Donnellan is a retired cleaner and currently rents her accommodation from Dublin City Council.
In his objection, Cyril Donnellan said: “I wish to advise the council that there is no reality in this application as presented by my sister, Bernadette Donnellan as I know she has no intention whatsoever of building or occupying the home.”
However, when contacted yesterday, Joe Donnellan confirmed that he has contracts signed for the sale of the site to his sister.
Mr Donnellan said there has been a family dispute. He said: “My only interest is selling the site.”
In his objection, Cyril Donnellan said: “I have lived at Ballycurraun for 25 years with my wife and family. We moved here from an urban area for privacy, peace and quietness. We have two bedrooms and one living room window facing the direction of the proposed dwelling. If a dwelling is erected nine metres from our home, we will have to keep our curtains closed forever more.”
When contacted, Cyril Donnellan declined to comment.
The council’s planner’s report states there is no requirement that a local rural person must occupy the dwelling. The planner states: “The only requirement is the house is occupied as a permanent dwelling.”
A decision is due on the appeal in March next year.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 13 December 2009
Plans for Clare rail museum lodged
Plans have been lodged for what has been described as 'Ireland’s largest road and rail museum' at Moyasta, west Clare.
The museum is to form part of the restored West Clare Railway attraction, where visitors have trebled since the return of the 117-year-old Slieve Callan steam engine last August.
Announcing the plans, Jackie Whelan of the West Clare Railway said - “The museum will be the largest road and rail museum in the country.” Already, he said, he had taken delivery of five rail engines to be placed in the museum.
With the plans lodged with Clare County Council, Mr Whelan said he hoped construction of the museum will begin early in 2010.
Mr Whelan also announced plans to extend the restored West Clare Railway a further 2.5 miles next year. He confirmed he is in negotiations with the National Roads Authority (NRA) on the rail line crossing the national secondary route between Kilrush and Kilkee.
The west Clare businessman said he plans to extend the rail line to Kilrush. He said - “There are a few objections to it, but we’re very hopeful.” Mr Whelan said that it was very important for west Clare’s tourism sector that the museum project would proceed.
Already, Mr Whelan has spent over €500,000 on the Slieve Callan engine in a 10-year restoration project.
The Slieve Callan powered the West Clare Railway between 1892 and 1952, before being exhibited on a plinth at Ennis railway station until 1996, when Mr Whelan in a daring raid took possession of it and brought it back to Moyasta to commence its restoration.
The government had closed the loss-making West Clare Railway in 1961. After the Slieve Callan’s first trip since restoration on the restored two miles of track last August, Mr Whelan told a crowd - “It is my intention, while I am this side of the ground, to extend the railway to the towns of Kilkee and Kilrush in west Clare.”
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The museum is to form part of the restored West Clare Railway attraction, where visitors have trebled since the return of the 117-year-old Slieve Callan steam engine last August.
Announcing the plans, Jackie Whelan of the West Clare Railway said - “The museum will be the largest road and rail museum in the country.” Already, he said, he had taken delivery of five rail engines to be placed in the museum.
With the plans lodged with Clare County Council, Mr Whelan said he hoped construction of the museum will begin early in 2010.
Mr Whelan also announced plans to extend the restored West Clare Railway a further 2.5 miles next year. He confirmed he is in negotiations with the National Roads Authority (NRA) on the rail line crossing the national secondary route between Kilrush and Kilkee.
The west Clare businessman said he plans to extend the rail line to Kilrush. He said - “There are a few objections to it, but we’re very hopeful.” Mr Whelan said that it was very important for west Clare’s tourism sector that the museum project would proceed.
Already, Mr Whelan has spent over €500,000 on the Slieve Callan engine in a 10-year restoration project.
The Slieve Callan powered the West Clare Railway between 1892 and 1952, before being exhibited on a plinth at Ennis railway station until 1996, when Mr Whelan in a daring raid took possession of it and brought it back to Moyasta to commence its restoration.
The government had closed the loss-making West Clare Railway in 1961. After the Slieve Callan’s first trip since restoration on the restored two miles of track last August, Mr Whelan told a crowd - “It is my intention, while I am this side of the ground, to extend the railway to the towns of Kilkee and Kilrush in west Clare.”
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Wednesday, 14 October 2009
Council ruling derails €60m retail park
A BUSINESSMAN yesterday revealed that he and his business partners are paying €20,000 in bank interest each month on a project that a county council has rendered no longer viable.
Last Thursday, Clare County Council gave the go-ahead for a €60 million retail park at Smithstown, Shannon. But it refused planning permission for the neighbourhood component of the application with the result that no aspect of the retail park will commence.
The application was made by Greenband Investments and Seán Halpin. Mr Halpin criticised the council, saying: “I have never encountered the kind of stone-walling, trip-wires, impediments that was put in the way of this development here.”
Mr Halpin said that the omission of the neighbourhood centre component of the plan no longer makes the retail park viable.
Mr Halpin confirmed that he and his business partners bought the 17½ acre site, zoned commercial, for €8 million in 2005 and have since paid €2 million in interest.
He said the interest is now costing on average €20,000 each month and that this was a lot of money for himself and his partners.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Last Thursday, Clare County Council gave the go-ahead for a €60 million retail park at Smithstown, Shannon. But it refused planning permission for the neighbourhood component of the application with the result that no aspect of the retail park will commence.
The application was made by Greenband Investments and Seán Halpin. Mr Halpin criticised the council, saying: “I have never encountered the kind of stone-walling, trip-wires, impediments that was put in the way of this development here.”
Mr Halpin said that the omission of the neighbourhood centre component of the plan no longer makes the retail park viable.
Mr Halpin confirmed that he and his business partners bought the 17½ acre site, zoned commercial, for €8 million in 2005 and have since paid €2 million in interest.
He said the interest is now costing on average €20,000 each month and that this was a lot of money for himself and his partners.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Friday, 2 October 2009
Clare stalactite cave to get visitor centre
THE PROMOTERS of Pol an Ionain cave in north Clare, which contains reputedly the largest free-hanging stalactite in the world, yesterday secured planning permission for a visitor centre at the site.
An Bord Pleanála yesterday gave the plan the go-ahead in the face of opposition from An Taisce, the Pol an Ionain Action Group and the nearby rival cave, Ailwee Cave.
Three years ago, the cave owners, John and Helen Browne, opened the cave to allow the public to view the 23ft-long stalactite after a 16-year long planning battle. However, the permission by An Bord Pleanála precluded any visitor centre and the public has been bused to the cave site through a park-and-ride system.
The Brownes, however, earlier this year, lodged plans for the visitor centre and a car-park for 30 cars after claiming that the enterprise is not viable into the future by relying on a park-and-ride system.
Clare County Council gave the proposal the go-ahead. However, in the appeals lodged, the opponents claimed the Brownes failed to justify the development and that the proposal may affect the wellbeing and future growth of the Great Stal.
However, the inspector in the case ruled that the possibility of an impact on the physical integrity of the Great Stal would not be significant, pointing out that the over-ground proposal is located 150 metres from the stalactite.
In its order, the appeals board concluded that the development would not pose a risk to the Great Stal, would not give rise to water pollution and would not prejudice public health.
The board ruled that visitor numbers are not to exceed 55,000 visitors per annum.
Helen Browne said yesterday that she was “very happy” with the ruling. She confirmed that work would start on the visitor centre in the next number of months and be ready for the 2010 summer season. Ms Browne said the work would cost between €400,000 and €500,000. The centre is to contain an exhibition area, a shop, cafe and toilets.
An Taisce’s heritage officer, Ian Lumley, has lodged a complaint with the Environment Directorate of the European Commission to overturn the An Bord Pleanála decision.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
An Bord Pleanála yesterday gave the plan the go-ahead in the face of opposition from An Taisce, the Pol an Ionain Action Group and the nearby rival cave, Ailwee Cave.
Three years ago, the cave owners, John and Helen Browne, opened the cave to allow the public to view the 23ft-long stalactite after a 16-year long planning battle. However, the permission by An Bord Pleanála precluded any visitor centre and the public has been bused to the cave site through a park-and-ride system.
The Brownes, however, earlier this year, lodged plans for the visitor centre and a car-park for 30 cars after claiming that the enterprise is not viable into the future by relying on a park-and-ride system.
Clare County Council gave the proposal the go-ahead. However, in the appeals lodged, the opponents claimed the Brownes failed to justify the development and that the proposal may affect the wellbeing and future growth of the Great Stal.
However, the inspector in the case ruled that the possibility of an impact on the physical integrity of the Great Stal would not be significant, pointing out that the over-ground proposal is located 150 metres from the stalactite.
In its order, the appeals board concluded that the development would not pose a risk to the Great Stal, would not give rise to water pollution and would not prejudice public health.
The board ruled that visitor numbers are not to exceed 55,000 visitors per annum.
Helen Browne said yesterday that she was “very happy” with the ruling. She confirmed that work would start on the visitor centre in the next number of months and be ready for the 2010 summer season. Ms Browne said the work would cost between €400,000 and €500,000. The centre is to contain an exhibition area, a shop, cafe and toilets.
An Taisce’s heritage officer, Ian Lumley, has lodged a complaint with the Environment Directorate of the European Commission to overturn the An Bord Pleanála decision.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Tuesday, 21 July 2009
Plans advance to extend West Clare railway
PLANS TO extend the West Clare railway to the towns of Kilrush and Kilkee have received a major boost.
This follows Clare County Council declaring its intention to confer equal status on the tourist attraction that the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle currently enjoy in the county development plan.
The fortunes of the West Clare railway were recently buoyed by the return of the restored 117-year old Slieve Callan, which operated on the West Clare rail-line from 1892 to 1952.
The then government closed down the railway in 1961 and 2km of the track has been restored at Moyasta in west Clare as a tourist attraction.
Now, in a report before council members that was discussed on Monday at a meeting behind closed doors, county manager, Tom Coughlan recommended that the new Clare County Development Plan “should contain a specific policy safeguarding the route of the line between Kilrush and Kilkee and the supporting proposals to restore the line to working order.”
West Clare businessman Jackie Whelan, who is behind the project, said that following Mr Coughlan’s recommendation he is “now confident that the line can be extended to Kilrush and Kilkee within the next five years with the co-operation of the people and the council. This is great news.” Describing the West Clare railway as as “icon” of Clare’s history, Mr Coughlan said: “It is hugely important to local people . . . Having reviewed the existing 2005 Clare County Development Plan, I consider that the attention that it pays to the West Clare railway could be improved or given greater emphasis.
“The tourism section of the current 2005 development plan lists the key areas of our tourism resource and the West Clare railway is not mentioned.” Mr Coughlan said that “Jackie Whelan has brought what started out as a small venture, born from sheer enthusiasm and a deep grá for Irish locomotives to getting part of the West Clare railway back on track.”
In his submission to the council, Mr Whelan said that tourism was fighting for its survival in the west of Ireland.
Mr Whelan said the official relaunch of the restored Slieve Callan takes place on August 13th next at Moyasta.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
This follows Clare County Council declaring its intention to confer equal status on the tourist attraction that the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle currently enjoy in the county development plan.
The fortunes of the West Clare railway were recently buoyed by the return of the restored 117-year old Slieve Callan, which operated on the West Clare rail-line from 1892 to 1952.
The then government closed down the railway in 1961 and 2km of the track has been restored at Moyasta in west Clare as a tourist attraction.
Now, in a report before council members that was discussed on Monday at a meeting behind closed doors, county manager, Tom Coughlan recommended that the new Clare County Development Plan “should contain a specific policy safeguarding the route of the line between Kilrush and Kilkee and the supporting proposals to restore the line to working order.”
West Clare businessman Jackie Whelan, who is behind the project, said that following Mr Coughlan’s recommendation he is “now confident that the line can be extended to Kilrush and Kilkee within the next five years with the co-operation of the people and the council. This is great news.” Describing the West Clare railway as as “icon” of Clare’s history, Mr Coughlan said: “It is hugely important to local people . . . Having reviewed the existing 2005 Clare County Development Plan, I consider that the attention that it pays to the West Clare railway could be improved or given greater emphasis.
“The tourism section of the current 2005 development plan lists the key areas of our tourism resource and the West Clare railway is not mentioned.” Mr Coughlan said that “Jackie Whelan has brought what started out as a small venture, born from sheer enthusiasm and a deep grá for Irish locomotives to getting part of the West Clare railway back on track.”
In his submission to the council, Mr Whelan said that tourism was fighting for its survival in the west of Ireland.
Mr Whelan said the official relaunch of the restored Slieve Callan takes place on August 13th next at Moyasta.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Objections mount against Doolin Cave tourist development
PLANS TO build a visitor centre at Doolin Cave in north Clare have run into opposition from An Taisce, the Pol an Ionáin Action Group and the operators of the rival cave attraction, Ailwee Caves.
Doolin couple John and Helen Browne opened the cave on the western edge of the Burren to the public three years ago. The highlight of the cave is the 8.3m-tall Pol an Ionáin stalactite. The Brownes say the cave is not viable as a tourism venture without on-site facilities – visitors are brought by bus from Doolin.
In response to an application lodged with Clare County Council, the director of Ailwee Caves, Adam Johnson, has urged the council to refuse planning permission for the rival venture.
Mr Johnson states that recently, “ . . . visitor numbers to the region have dwindled and there can be no doubt that the further development of Doolin cave in such close proximity to Ailwee Cave will result in an overall loss of business in both consequent job losses and decreased spin-off for other local businesses.
“In this current economic climate, more job losses is something that both private enterprise and public bodies have got to work side by side in avoiding at all costs. Refusing this application will go some way in helping to make sure that this does not happen.”
In a separate objection, Gabriel Casey of the Pol an Ionáin Action Group states: “Proposed benefits to the local economy are unfounded. The most likely scenario is that the proposed visitor centre facility would result in less visitors stopping off at the local village and less money being spent in shops and restaurants.”
“The proposed development would have a severe impact on duplicate and other businesses in the north Clare area. We ask that this very unspoilt part of the Burren remain as it is. It is our opinion that present planning regulation and planning precedent afford it the protection it needs.”
An Taisce submits that the development “contravenes the entire basis on which An Bord Pleanála granted permission for the opening of Pol an Ionáin cave as a show cave.”
In its objection, the organisation representing caving enthusiasts, Speleological Union of Ireland (SUI) said that it “is not opposed to show cave development and indeed welcome the education of the public about caves.
“However, we consider Pol an Ionáin is not suitable for development of one unique, irreplaceable feature and raises too many unnecessary threats to it.” A decision is due on the application next month.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Doolin couple John and Helen Browne opened the cave on the western edge of the Burren to the public three years ago. The highlight of the cave is the 8.3m-tall Pol an Ionáin stalactite. The Brownes say the cave is not viable as a tourism venture without on-site facilities – visitors are brought by bus from Doolin.
In response to an application lodged with Clare County Council, the director of Ailwee Caves, Adam Johnson, has urged the council to refuse planning permission for the rival venture.
Mr Johnson states that recently, “ . . . visitor numbers to the region have dwindled and there can be no doubt that the further development of Doolin cave in such close proximity to Ailwee Cave will result in an overall loss of business in both consequent job losses and decreased spin-off for other local businesses.
“In this current economic climate, more job losses is something that both private enterprise and public bodies have got to work side by side in avoiding at all costs. Refusing this application will go some way in helping to make sure that this does not happen.”
In a separate objection, Gabriel Casey of the Pol an Ionáin Action Group states: “Proposed benefits to the local economy are unfounded. The most likely scenario is that the proposed visitor centre facility would result in less visitors stopping off at the local village and less money being spent in shops and restaurants.”
“The proposed development would have a severe impact on duplicate and other businesses in the north Clare area. We ask that this very unspoilt part of the Burren remain as it is. It is our opinion that present planning regulation and planning precedent afford it the protection it needs.”
An Taisce submits that the development “contravenes the entire basis on which An Bord Pleanála granted permission for the opening of Pol an Ionáin cave as a show cave.”
In its objection, the organisation representing caving enthusiasts, Speleological Union of Ireland (SUI) said that it “is not opposed to show cave development and indeed welcome the education of the public about caves.
“However, we consider Pol an Ionáin is not suitable for development of one unique, irreplaceable feature and raises too many unnecessary threats to it.” A decision is due on the application next month.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 9 April 2009
Doolin Cave visitor centre plan lodged
THE PROMOTERS of Doolin Cave, Co Clare, have relodged plans for a visitor centre to serve people going to view the Pol an Ionáin stalactite.
However, the owners of Ailwee Cave, a nearby rival, quickly lodged an objection against the plan by Doolin Cave Ltd.
The new plan by John and Helen Browne of Doolin Cave Ltd attracted one other objection, from a Michael Scanlon of Lissycasey, Ennis, Co Clare.
A previous application by the Brownes earlier this year was invalidated on a technicality and the plans have now been relodged.
The planning application argues that the cave, which contains reputedly the largest free-hanging stalactite in the world, is not viable without a visitor centre.
The Brownes opened Doolin Cave to the public three years ago.However, stringent conditions were imposed on them and tourists had to be bussed to the cave, where there were no onsite facilities.
In a letter accompanying the application for a visitor centre, Doolin Cave Ltd states: “The developers did not anticipate that the ‘park-and-ride’ operation at Doolin Cave would present any difficulty when it was first proposed by them in their planning application.
“They tried it over three tourist seasons in 2006, 2007 and 2008 in good faith and have found to their disappointment that it does not generate enough revenue to be viable into the future.”
The letter states that the cave itself is very successful and visitors have been overwhelmingly positive.
It says there is no other visitor attraction in the State “which operates on a park-and-ride basis and a chemical toilet system”.
The application argues that Doolin Cave “has huge potential to become one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions” in a sustainable way.
It says the lack of visitor facilities on the site “will never allow it develop to its full potential”.
However, in his objection, Mr Scanlon states: “An Bord Pleanála has always insisted that no buildings or toilet facilities be erected on this site.
“This is undoubtedly to safeguard the stalactite.”
Mr Scanlon expresses his opposition to what he calls the “built-up environment and commercialism of the Doolin tourist industry invading this far into the unspoilt countryside”.
He adds: “There is a showcase/ visitor attraction employing 100 people in the area already. Is another viable in this economic climate?”
A decision is due on the application by Doolin Cave Ltd later this year.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
However, the owners of Ailwee Cave, a nearby rival, quickly lodged an objection against the plan by Doolin Cave Ltd.
The new plan by John and Helen Browne of Doolin Cave Ltd attracted one other objection, from a Michael Scanlon of Lissycasey, Ennis, Co Clare.
A previous application by the Brownes earlier this year was invalidated on a technicality and the plans have now been relodged.
The planning application argues that the cave, which contains reputedly the largest free-hanging stalactite in the world, is not viable without a visitor centre.
The Brownes opened Doolin Cave to the public three years ago.However, stringent conditions were imposed on them and tourists had to be bussed to the cave, where there were no onsite facilities.
In a letter accompanying the application for a visitor centre, Doolin Cave Ltd states: “The developers did not anticipate that the ‘park-and-ride’ operation at Doolin Cave would present any difficulty when it was first proposed by them in their planning application.
“They tried it over three tourist seasons in 2006, 2007 and 2008 in good faith and have found to their disappointment that it does not generate enough revenue to be viable into the future.”
The letter states that the cave itself is very successful and visitors have been overwhelmingly positive.
It says there is no other visitor attraction in the State “which operates on a park-and-ride basis and a chemical toilet system”.
The application argues that Doolin Cave “has huge potential to become one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions” in a sustainable way.
It says the lack of visitor facilities on the site “will never allow it develop to its full potential”.
However, in his objection, Mr Scanlon states: “An Bord Pleanála has always insisted that no buildings or toilet facilities be erected on this site.
“This is undoubtedly to safeguard the stalactite.”
Mr Scanlon expresses his opposition to what he calls the “built-up environment and commercialism of the Doolin tourist industry invading this far into the unspoilt countryside”.
He adds: “There is a showcase/ visitor attraction employing 100 people in the area already. Is another viable in this economic climate?”
A decision is due on the application by Doolin Cave Ltd later this year.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Monday, 9 February 2009
Council may not get infrastructure funds over Ennis rezoning
THE DEPARTMENT of the Environment has warned Clare County Council that is it likely to miss out on Government infrastructural investment unless it reverses rezoning decisions for the greater Ennis area.
The department has also told the council that its rezoning of land for housing may result in possible legal action from the European Commission. The intervention by the department follows the council rezoning land to cater for a population growth from 30,000 to 100,000 when the department says the likely increase is only 6,500.
In adopting the Greater Ennis Development Plan last December, councillors snubbed Minister for the Environment John Gormley by ignoring his recommendations to reverse rezonings of large tracts of land. Instead of tightening restrictions on one-off housing, councillors loosened the rules.
Now, in a letter to the council from the Minister’s private secretary, Eddie Kiernan, seen by The Irish Times, he has told the council it has rezoned land to cater for population growth from almost 30,000 to over 100,000. Mr Kiernan said the department believes the rezonings are “unsustainable” and that the expected population growth over the period of the plan is only 6,500.
He said: “In such circumstances and without any clear phasing of lands for development, the plan provides for an ad-hoc and development-led approach to planning, making the efficient and orderly provision of physical and social infrastructure more difficult to achieve.” He added: “In the current economic climate, departments and agencies must consider how they should prioritise their resources to deliver best value for money.
“However, without a development plan that is coherent and consistent with regional and national policies and indeed with growth forecasts set down in the county development plan and housing strategy, the Ennis and environs plan as adopted fails to provide the necessary framework underpinning the value for money for infrastructural investment.
Mr Kiernan said department officials will arrange a meeting with the council on the matters raised. The issue is also likely to be discussed by the council at its February meeting.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The department has also told the council that its rezoning of land for housing may result in possible legal action from the European Commission. The intervention by the department follows the council rezoning land to cater for a population growth from 30,000 to 100,000 when the department says the likely increase is only 6,500.
In adopting the Greater Ennis Development Plan last December, councillors snubbed Minister for the Environment John Gormley by ignoring his recommendations to reverse rezonings of large tracts of land. Instead of tightening restrictions on one-off housing, councillors loosened the rules.
Now, in a letter to the council from the Minister’s private secretary, Eddie Kiernan, seen by The Irish Times, he has told the council it has rezoned land to cater for population growth from almost 30,000 to over 100,000. Mr Kiernan said the department believes the rezonings are “unsustainable” and that the expected population growth over the period of the plan is only 6,500.
He said: “In such circumstances and without any clear phasing of lands for development, the plan provides for an ad-hoc and development-led approach to planning, making the efficient and orderly provision of physical and social infrastructure more difficult to achieve.” He added: “In the current economic climate, departments and agencies must consider how they should prioritise their resources to deliver best value for money.
“However, without a development plan that is coherent and consistent with regional and national policies and indeed with growth forecasts set down in the county development plan and housing strategy, the Ennis and environs plan as adopted fails to provide the necessary framework underpinning the value for money for infrastructural investment.
Mr Kiernan said department officials will arrange a meeting with the council on the matters raised. The issue is also likely to be discussed by the council at its February meeting.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Tuesday, 9 December 2008
Tesco plan for petrol station opposed
PETROL STATION retailers from across Co Clare are opposing a plan by Tesco to open a station in Kilrush which they say will force the closure of a number of stations with the loss of 43 jobs.
Last month Kilrush Town Council granted planning permission to Tesco to build a four-island petrol station on the Ennis road in the west Clare town.
The council gave the plan the go-ahead in spite of strong opposition from station owners and from the independent retailers organisation, Rgdata.
Eleven stations have appealed the decision: Oliver O'Shea and John Crowley, Kilrush; John Daly, Cooraclare; Michael Fitzpatrick, Kilmihil; Michael Sheedy, Darragh; O'Sullivan Hansbury, Ennis; Maxol/Spar, Clarecastle; Pádraic Hayes, Doonbeg; David Glynn, Killimer; Tony Nealon, Kilmurry McMahon and Tessie Power, Knockerra.
Lodged by the Irish Petrol Retailers' Association, the appeal states that a number of these stations, some of which provide the only shop for local communities, would be forced to close.
The station owners predict that their Tesco rival would take 43 per cent of the petrol retail market in west Clare, with Tesco accounting for sales of €149,940 per week.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Last month Kilrush Town Council granted planning permission to Tesco to build a four-island petrol station on the Ennis road in the west Clare town.
The council gave the plan the go-ahead in spite of strong opposition from station owners and from the independent retailers organisation, Rgdata.
Eleven stations have appealed the decision: Oliver O'Shea and John Crowley, Kilrush; John Daly, Cooraclare; Michael Fitzpatrick, Kilmihil; Michael Sheedy, Darragh; O'Sullivan Hansbury, Ennis; Maxol/Spar, Clarecastle; Pádraic Hayes, Doonbeg; David Glynn, Killimer; Tony Nealon, Kilmurry McMahon and Tessie Power, Knockerra.
Lodged by the Irish Petrol Retailers' Association, the appeal states that a number of these stations, some of which provide the only shop for local communities, would be forced to close.
The station owners predict that their Tesco rival would take 43 per cent of the petrol retail market in west Clare, with Tesco accounting for sales of €149,940 per week.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 9 October 2008
Cliffs of Moher park and ride facilities appealed
PLANS FOR park and ride facilities to service the new Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre in Co Clare have been appealed to An Bord Pleanála.
Atlantis Development Ltd had been given permission by Clare County Council in September for park and ride facilities at Liscannor and Coogyulla, Doolin. The Liscannor plan was for 350 car-parking spaces, 10 coach-parking space and four shuttle bus spaces while the Doolin scheme involved spaces for 115 cars and four buses.
Residents of Liscannor says that the nature and extent of the planned Liscannor facility warrants an environmental impact study and that a "full traffic mobility study should have been lodged with the application". "This is a major development for north Clare but has not been sufficiently researched or detailed" while the council has "been known to require more details for an individual house in the countryside than they have required in this instance".
Similar reasons were cited by Residents of Doolin for appealing the Doolin facility with the appellants claiming the development would "exacerbate existing traffic congestion" in the village and "adversely impact on the amenity of residential property in the vicinity". "There is a lack of any comprehensive plan for this part of the village," according to the appeal, "and inadequate consideration has been given to linkage with main street."
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Atlantis Development Ltd had been given permission by Clare County Council in September for park and ride facilities at Liscannor and Coogyulla, Doolin. The Liscannor plan was for 350 car-parking spaces, 10 coach-parking space and four shuttle bus spaces while the Doolin scheme involved spaces for 115 cars and four buses.
Residents of Liscannor says that the nature and extent of the planned Liscannor facility warrants an environmental impact study and that a "full traffic mobility study should have been lodged with the application". "This is a major development for north Clare but has not been sufficiently researched or detailed" while the council has "been known to require more details for an individual house in the countryside than they have required in this instance".
Similar reasons were cited by Residents of Doolin for appealing the Doolin facility with the appellants claiming the development would "exacerbate existing traffic congestion" in the village and "adversely impact on the amenity of residential property in the vicinity". "There is a lack of any comprehensive plan for this part of the village," according to the appeal, "and inadequate consideration has been given to linkage with main street."
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Friday, 20 June 2008
Clare councillors allow one-off building
Clare county councillors have forced through planning permission for Ennis businessman Gerry Danagher to build a home, a one-off house, at Ballycullinan, Corofin in the Burren, against the advice of planners.
It is the first time since 1983 that councillors have invoked special powers in the planning area by tabling a contentious section 140 motion directing county manager Alec Fleming to grant permission.
It is also the first time that they have overturned the council's own "locals only" rule, introduced in 1999, to control urban-generated housing in rural areas.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
It is the first time since 1983 that councillors have invoked special powers in the planning area by tabling a contentious section 140 motion directing county manager Alec Fleming to grant permission.
It is also the first time that they have overturned the council's own "locals only" rule, introduced in 1999, to control urban-generated housing in rural areas.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
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